Going against the grain has reaped rewards for Strange Nature, the New Zealand grape-based gin that is winning the attention at the world’s top spirits awards and continues to make waves in the spirits industry with its unique approach. 

Gin Wins

Distilled exclusively from the spirit of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, Strange Nature Gin received 98/100 – Gold Outstanding at the International Wines & Spirits Competition (IWSC) 2024 in London this month – the most respected global drinks community, then a Gold Medal for Bottle Design and Packaging at the Los Angeles Spirit Awards. 

Strange Nature emerged as a standout at the IWSC 2024, competing against 4,000 spirits worldwide, ranking as the #1 New Zealand wine and spirit in 2024 and the #1 New Zealand wine and spirit in the past eight years based on scoring NZ liquor across all categories. 

Placing it in the top two percent of awarded spirits, the strangely delightful drop secured a spot in the top five across all gins internationally at the IWSC 2024 and tied for #1 Contemporary Gin with Fiesta Gin from the Czech Republic. 

"We’re immensely proud of these accolades, which highlight the exceptional quality and craftsmanship of Strange Nature Gin and continues our exciting upward trajectory only three years after launching," said Rhys Julian, GM and owner of Strange Nature Gin. 

What Makes Strange Nature Different

“Crafting the strangest gin on the market packed full of sauvignon and juniper flavours, with a product that is highly sustainable and completely traceable from grape to glass are qualities undoubtedly sets us apart – not to mention our distinctive bottle design which captures the attention even before our delicious liquid hits the lips.” 

At the LA Spirit Awards, Strange Nature Gin’s unique bottle design and packaging was recognised for its exceptional design, creativity and craftsmanship. 

Rhys added, “This accolade underscores our brand's commitment to not only delivering a superior gin but also presenting it in a visually striking and sophisticated manner that enhances the overall consumer experience. 

"Winning the Gold Medal for our bottle design at the LA Spirit Awards and achieving such high honours at the IWSC is a testament to our team's dedication and passion. These awards place Strange Nature amongst the world’s best and validate our efforts to create a gin that not only delights the palate but also captivates the eye. 

Strange Nature has captured a loyal following with its singularly botanical with juniper characteristics, capturing the essence of its origins - aromatic, fruity, tropical, zesty, and herbaceous. 

Recognised as one of the fastest-growing global craft gin brands, Strange Nature has achieved unrivalled success. Quickly amassing global distribution in duty-free stores at international airports across Australia. New Zealand, Asia and the Middle East, then distribution into duty-paid domestic markets across the globe, including the US, Australia and more recently the UK. 

“We are then working hard to ensure these quality placements remain in place for years to come, through a myriad of marketing activities that support the trade and at the same time provide the consumer good reasons to pick our brand off the shelf or as part of an ingredient in their favourite gin cocktail. It’s an exciting time ahead!”